"We were really surprised but found [the concept] new and interesting," said Ms Zhang.

Despite the absence of genuine cadavers, Ms Zhang said the funeral services were realistic, involving coffins, floral bouquets, mourners, photographers and even emotion-packed speeches from friends of the 'deceased'.

"The service has two parts - a 20-minute memorial service and a 15-20 minute 'life-death experience'," she said.

A rendition of a Chinese pop song called "Angel" is also included in the package.

"The atmosphere is quite light-hearted, just like a party," said Ms Zhang.

Of her "funeral", Ms Zeng said: "Twenty of my classmates attended the service. They told me what they really thought of me, giving me a better understanding of myself and how I am seen by others."

"After the service, I felt I could do better and treasure life more," she added.

Ms Zhang, the cemetery employee, said the unusual experience had been praised by participants, among them an elderly couple.

"We asked why they took part in the service [and] the grandfather, who was very open minded, said they cared less about death at their age, that it was just a matter of time. It was not a taboo for them – they just wanted to try new things, meaningful things, in their remaining days."

The unconventional services have been widely criticized online for being morbid and disrespectful to the dead.

But Ms Zhang insisted the mock funerals were therapeutic. "We think [the] idea is most positive [and shows] respect for life, although some internet-users have expressed quite strong opposition."

"I don't think this will become a common or regular practice since the mortuary service is for the dead, not for the living," admitted Ms Zeng, the trainee undertaker. "But it is good to make people realize that life is constantly changing and that we should all cherish it more."